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Mohammad Amir, the former Pakistan fast bowler, is set to get his UK citizenship in 2024, which could open up the possibility of him playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Amir, who retired from international cricket in 2020, has been living in England with his wife Narjis Khan, a British citizen and lawyer, since 2020.
Amir has played 36 Tests, 61 ODIs, and 50 T20Is for Pakistan, taking 259 wickets across formats. The seamer was part of the Pakistan team that won the 2017 Champions Trophy and has also played in various T20 leagues around the world, such as the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
However, Amir has never played in the IPL, as Pakistani players are not allowed to participate in the lucrative tournament due to political tensions between India and Pakistan. The last time Pakistani players featured in the IPL was in the inaugural edition in 2008.
Amir could change that if he gets his UK passport next year, as he would no longer be considered a Pakistani player. He would be eligible to register for the IPL auction as an overseas player and join any of the franchises that might be interested in his services.
Amir has not yet decided on his future and is taking things step-by-step."I have one year. I don't know what would be the scenario. I always move step by step. I don't know where I will be after a year. Nobody knows the future. When I get the passport, I will definitely avail the best opportunity I get," Amir told ARY News.
Amir would not be the first Pakistani player to play in the IPL with a British passport. Azhar Mahmood, who also retired from international cricket for Pakistan, played for Kings XI Punjab and Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL after acquiring a British passport. Amir has also ruled out playing for England after getting his UK citizenship, saying he has already played for Pakistan and does not want to switch teams.
